Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Local Government Leadership topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Joanne Cunningham elected chair of the Albany County Legislature
Summary
At its Jan. 5 organizational meeting, the Albany County Legislature elected Joanne Cunningham chair by roll-call vote, 29–4, after nominations for two candidates and a short roll call. Cunningham thanked colleagues and noted historic aspects of her leadership.
Joanne Cunningham was elected chair of the Albany County Legislature at the body’s organizational meeting on Jan. 5, 2026, winning a roll-call vote of 29 to 4. The vote capped nominations that included Cunningham and Patrice (Patty) Schwartz Lockhart.
Dennis Feeney nominated Joanne Cunningham for chair; a second was recorded. Legislator Mauriello nominated Patrice Lockhart and delivered an extended endorsement describing Lockhart’s long service in local government and her prior public-safety leadership. Paul Bergdorf and others registered support for Lockhart. After a motion to close nominations carried, the clerk conducted a roll call. The clerk announced a tally of 29 votes for Cunningham and four for Lockhart, and the chairpersonship was awarded to Cunningham.
“Thank you. I greatly appreciate your support. And it is my privilege and honor to serve as the chair of this body,” Joanne Cunningham said after the clerk announced the result. Cunningham congratulated her colleague Patrice Lockhart on the nomination and reflected that the Legislature had made history during recent leadership selections.
Earlier in the meeting the body selected Wanda Faye Willingham as temporary chair to open the organizational proceedings. The meeting then proceeded to several routine organizational resolutions and other housekeeping business before adjourning.
The Legislature’s organizational meeting was held at 7 p.m. in the legislative chambers of the Albany County Courthouse.
